Writing a new business plan is very revealing
I just began working on a complicated, multi-stage business plan for Acailawen Designs. I initially wrote my business plan to focus more heavily on custom design services, with sales as a secondary consideration. Things have changed, and now my plan must change to meet my business’ updated needs.
I had initially planned to simply revamp my existing plan, but I discovered that it was unintentionally dumped from my system during a recent hard drive reformat. As it turned out, my backup file on DVD was also corrupt. So, I had to start over from scratch. I admit, I wasn’t too keen on starting over at first, but now realize it’s probably just as well. I can’t say that I find the process enjoyable. But, it is certainly revealing. I have quickly come to realize just how much my direction has changed in the months since I decided to officially go into business. And, my business and design procedures are far more defined than they previously were. I have much better handle on my business overall. So, while I can’t say writing a business plan is how I’d like to be spending my time, in the end, I am certain it will be much more beneficial this time around.
Production Lines
I’m wandering outside of my comfort zone as a designer. I love one-of-a-kind couture design work & client commissions. The mass production process leaves me quite bewildered. Yet, it seems that most business grants, lenders & private investors are aimed at mass production lines or a mix of custom/production (presumed higher return). So, what’s a designer to do?
While I’d rather do solely original designs & commissions for clients, greater versatility means more opportunities for revenue long term. That is definitely worth consideration. I’ll weigh my options carefully, after doing a good bit of research. I’d consider doing both, but I could never give up custom couture design & being an artisan. It’s what I do & love.
Technical Design for Mass Production vs. Handcrafted Originals
I saw an ad for a technical jewelry designer in NY posted a few days ago & thought it could be great opportunity, but I love crafting my own pieces. I could not design for a mass-produced label if I wasn’t still doing my own original designs, as well; especially custom design work. I don’t know how others do it. I got started doing custom design work for artistic, commercial and editorial print photography, as I’m also a photo stylist. It is something that I still regularly do. I don’t see myself ever giving that up. I’d rather do custom designs, being commissioned to create a one-of-a-kind wearable piece of art for my customer than cranking out designs to be produced by the thousands. I’m not saying that I would never consider doing designs for a mass-produced label in addition to my own original work. But, I could never do it if I was not still able to create my unique, green couture designs that I craft with my own hands. To me, that’s what being a designer/artisan is all about.
